Forget high street chain stores, for we have only a few.

Instead, you will find independently owned shops, where products have been selected by the owners, to suit the individual needs of local residents and visitors.

This is no means an exhaustive list and is in no way intended to suggest that other shops are not worth a visit - just a sample to whet your appetite.

Murdo Macleans - the Stornoway department store, with quality decorative objects, fabrics, clothing and shoes.

The Lewis Loom Centre - an Aladdin's cave of Harris Tweeds, jackets, coats, scarves and even tweed to buy off the roll and take back to your tailor. Amazing prices.

Hebridean Jewellery - manufacturers of beautiful silver jewellery with Celtic infuences - you could buy all your presents for Christmas here and save the bother of shopping in December!

The Fishermens' Co-operative - outdoor clothes ranging from practical and inexpensive to 'designer names' at prices we've not seen on the mainland. Plus all kinds of chandlery items and yellow wellingtons galore!

Fonn - a super little musical instrument shop, where you get personal attention.

Besides these, browse the boutiques, book shops, kilt makers, Celtic record shop and quite a few more. And if you really want multiples, there's a Co-op superstore and a Somerfields for groceries, Boots, Superdrug and Woolworths, too.